Agwara School Kidnapping: Niger Lawmakers Call For Tougher Security

Lawmakers from Niger State in the National Assembly have condemned the abduction of students from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Agwara Local Government Area, describing it as another sign of the deepening security crisis in the region.

Armed attackers seized an unspecified number of students earlier this week, prompting outrage and concern across the state.

In a joint statement, the Niger State Caucus expressed “profound sorrow” over the incident and pledged support for Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago and security agencies working to rescue the victims.

The lawmakers say the attack reflects the “worsening insecurity” affecting several parts of Northern Nigeria, where communities continue to face banditry, mass kidnappings, and terrorist violence.

They called for increased military deployment in flashpoint areas, improved intelligence systems, and stronger inter-agency coordination.

The caucus also urged the federal government to intensify interventions in Niger State, particularly in border communities such as Agwara, which security officials say are highly vulnerable to armed groups.

They appealed to residents to remain calm and support ongoing rescue efforts while urging security forces to ensure the students’ safe return and bring the perpetrators to justice.

PR Oduyemi Odumade